'The Grinch' Gives Back Christmas

November 21, 2007 - Phyllis Sigal

"Dr. Seuss' How The Grinch Stole Christmas" opened on Broadway at the St. James Theater Nov. 9, featuring Aaron Galligan-Stierle as Papa Who. Aaron grew up in Wheeling, graduated from Wheeling Park High School's theater program. He was "the" actor in town ... you know, the "one most likely to succeed on Broadway" ... and so he has.

But, the morning after the opening night, a dispute between the stagehands union, Local 1, and the League of American Theatres and Producers closed "Grinch" and 26 other Broadway plays and musicals.

So sad. It seemed as if "Grinch" got the most publicity for a couple of reasons. One, it was the first show affected by the strike because of an 11 a.m. performance that Saturday. Other matinees are usually at 2 or 3 p.m. And two, because so many of those looking forward to the show were little children, so excited about seeing Mr. Grinch and all the Whos in Whoville.

Some children waiting in line were told that The Grinch was just sick that day ... Sure, how do you explain a stagehand strike to a 5-year-old.

Anyway, the good news is that a judge ruled that "Grinch" will take the stage Friday, Nov. 23, at 11 a.m. Can't you just hear the collective cheer from all those Whos?

Supreme Court Justice Helen Freedman said Wednesday. "I think one Grinch in town in enough." She said she believed the production company would be irreparably harmed if the show did not go on. Good for her!

Aaron commented a couple of weeks ago, "As for the strike, all I can say is that I sincerely hope it is resolved soon. It is an unfortunate situation for us all. ..."

Well, break a leg, Aaron! Enjoy the rest of the "Grinch" run! We're all pulling for you back in Wheeling!